Safety Failure Costs Plant Hire Firm £10,000 After Worker Crushed
Employee struck by falling JCB bucket results in a court fining a plant hire company after a he suffered life-changing injuries. The incident happened during a tipper truck repair.
The Incident
On 24 October 2023, an employee of Salford Grab Hire Limited helped a colleague fix a broken lifting mechanism. Consequently, they used a JCB to prop up the raised tipper body. Suddenly, the one-tonne bucket became dislodged and fell onto the worker.
Severe Injuries Sustained
As a result, the worker suffered devastating injuries. He broke his hand, shoulder blade, ribs, shin, and thigh. Furthermore, the impact crushed his ankle and foot. He later developed a dangerous blood clot in his lungs.
Investigation Reveals Safety Flaws
Afterward, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigated the incident. They found that Salford Grab Hire Limited failed to use appropriate support equipment. Specifically, the JCB bucket lacked a quick hitch or retaining pin. Therefore, the bucket easily slid loose and fell.
Crucial Safety Tip: HSE guidance states that workers must effectively prop elevated vehicle load areas before accessing the space below. Additionally, workers must only use props designed for the weight on firm, level ground. see guidance: health and safety in motor vehicle repair and associated industries
Court Verdict and Fines
Ultimately, Salford Grab Hire Limited pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. On 27 January 2026, Warrington Magistrates’ Court fined the company £10,000. In addition, the judge ordered them to pay £3,475.90 in costs.
A Stark Warning to Employers
HSE Inspector Rose Leese-Weller later issued a stark warning to the industry:
“Every year we see serious and fatal injuries to people working under poorly propped vehicles. Therefore, employers must never underestimate these risks. They must ensure staff use the right equipment and safe systems of work.”
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